Amazon Alexa App Gains Redesigned Interface for Controlling Devices
Amazon is currently rolling out an updated version of its companion app for Alexa-enabled devices that includes a significantly redesigned user interface.
The visual changes are immediately apparent on firing up the app, and center around a new Devices and Groups tab located in the lower right of the screen.
With the new menu selected, the devices are listed in a horizontal strip along the top of the interface, allowing users to control individual smart lights, audio devices, and power outlets all from the same screen.
Below that, Alexa devices are also grouped by room indicated by colored cards, which have on/off buttons and can also be tapped to control and edit included devices.
Elsewhere, users can add new devices by tapping a plus button in the upper right of the interface, while the original clunky sidebar menu remains available via a button in the upper right.
The changes to the app come on the heels of Amazon’s recent additions to its ecosystem of Alexa-powered devices, which include new Echo speakers, a subwoofer, amplifiers, a microwave, wall clock, and more.
The Amazon Alexa app is a free download on the App Store for iPhone and iPad.